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Matthews's decision to join the Pacers after being bought out by the Knicks could shine a light on what he will prioritize this summer in free agency. Matthews could have taken the minimum to join the Warriors, Rockets, or Bucks, but instead he chose to go to the Pacers, who offered him a starting job in place of the injured Victor Oladipo. Either Matthews prioritizes his role over winning, or he just wanted to put himself in the best position to maximize his value going into free agency.

 

The Pacers will have limited means of re-signing Matthews, as they will either remain over the cap and re-sign their other free agents, use cap space to chase a big name free agent, or some combination of the two. Either way, Matthews is likely looking for a new home this summer.

Potential Teams: Rockets, Pacers, Lakers, Clippers 

Predicted Contract: 2-year, $11.7 million with the Rockets

*Actual Contract: 2-year, $5.3 million (2nd year player option) with the Bucks.

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I was surprised to see Matthews sign for the minimum, but he apparently really values starting, as he chose Indiana after being bought out last season so he could start in the place of injured Victor Oladipo. I would be interested to know what offers Matthews turned down to sign with the Bucks.

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